Tracheoesophageal fistula induced by aspergillus infection following bone marrow transplantation

Tracheoesophageal fistula induced by invasive pulmonary aspergillosis

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is commonly seen in immunocompromised patients, and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) induced by IPA is rare and seldom reported. Management of these critically ill patients is challenging and often requires a multidisciplinary approach. The authors reported an adult suffering from aplastic anemia who developed TEF caused by IPA. The diagnosis was confirmed following bronchoscopy and histopathological examination. Antifungal and bronchoscopic intervention provided a cure without any recurrence as yet.

Pulmonary dysfunction in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients: overview, diagnostic considerations, and infectious complications

Pulmonary complications are among the most common and serious sequelae seen in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients. This two-part review addresses the incidence and impact of pulmonary complications in pediatric HSCT patients. In this first part we review the available data for the use of diagnostic modalities in this population, including flexible bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and open lung biopsy (OLB). We also review the many infectious pulmonary complications that may occur in pediatric HSCT recipients, utilizing the traditional chronologic divisions of neutropenic phase (0-30 days following HSCT), early phase (30-100 days), and late phase (>100 days).

[Pulmonary complications in immunosuppressed children]

Pulmonary complications, which are dominated by opportunistic infections, can be first manifestations of inherited or acquired pediatric immune deficiencies. Prompt diagnosis is essential. The epidemiology and natural history of these complications have changed as a result of major advances in prevention, diagnosis and treatment.